Assessment of the maternal death surveillance and response implementation process in Burkina Faso.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the maternal death surveillance and response (MDSR) implementation process in two health districts in Burkina Faso and identify factors that have affected implementation. METHODS: We conducted a case study in two health districts selected by purposive sampling according to location (rural or urban) during the period 2015-2016. Data gathering consisted of semi-structured interviews with several health personnel involved in the implementation process. RESULTS: Identification and notification of deaths varied depending on the facility. Maternal death review sessions were irregular, and the completion rate was lower in urban areas The community component has not yet been implemented and review of newborn deaths is not yet standard practice. Follow-up and implementation of the review recommendations were inadequate. CONCLUSION: Implementation of the MDSR system in Burkina Faso remains in progress. Improvements are needed in notification of deaths occurring at community level, monitoring and evaluation, and integration of newborn deaths into the process.